Cruising the Dalmatian Coast

Itinerary

June 20-21 — U.S., Venice, Italy
Depart the U.S. for Venice, Italy. Embark the M.S. L’Austral in the afternoon and attend the Captain’s Welcome Reception and dinner this evening.

June 22 — Split, Croatia
Explore Split, an ancient imperial city that began with the construction of Diocletian’s Palace in the 4th century and which has evolved into an eclectic mix of Old World charm and modern convenience. Today, pre-Romanesque churches, Gothic chapels, historic museums, art galleries, and bustling cafes highlight Split’s narrow cobblestone streets. Depart the pier for a panoramic drive through Split.

Visit the Mestrovic Gallery, the home and gallery of Ivan Mestrovic, the greatest Croatian sculptor of all time. After viewing a display of his works of art, continue to the entrance of Split’s Old Town. The Old Town is built around the spectacular 4th-century Diocletian’s Palace, designated a World Heritage site in 1979. Enjoy a guided walking tour of the Palace, including a visit to its well-preserved cellars. Next, visit the Cathedral of St. Duje, the patron saint of Split. Visit also the charming Temple of Jupiter, followed by exterior visits to the Golden Gate, Silver Gate, and Peristyle Square.

June 23 — Hvar, Korcula
On the walking tour of Hvar, visit the Renaissance Cathedral of St. Stephen with its Italianate bell tower, and the Benedictine Monastery, well known for its nuns’ unique lace hand-crafted from agave fibers.

After lunch on board, arrive in Kocula and stroll along the unique 13th-century city walls of this immaculately preserved town. Visit the historic Abbey Treasury, home to a priceless collection of medieval manuscripts, artwork, and historic artifacts. You'll see the house where Marco Polo is said to have been born, and admire masterful works by Tintoretto in the 15th-century Cathedral of St. Mark.

Later, enjoy a traditional Croatian klapa dance performance on board the ship.

June 24 — Kotor, Montenegro
Montenegro is one of the newest nations in the world, having gained its independence from Serbia in 2006. The excursion into this newly emerging nation features a scenic drive along the spectacular Bay of Kotor, deeply carved into the Montenegrian mountains, into the charming town of Kotor, a World Heritage site. Visit its Venetian Baroque old town and impressive medieval fortifications. This afternoon, enjoy time at leisure in Kotor.

June 25 — Dubrovnik, Croatia
Affectionately called “the pearl of the Adriatic,” the entire city of Dubrovnik has been named a World Heritage site in recognition of its incomparable beauty and historic treasures and is one of UNESCO’s largest restoration projects. Visit the city’s most famous landmarks, including the Franciscan Monastery, the 15th-century Rector’s Palace, and the Maritime Museum, which chronicles Dubrovnik’s long and fascinating history as one of Europe’s most storied ports. Walk along the well-preserved old city walls to enjoy superb views of the old port. Attend the exclusive presentation by a prominent University of Dubrovnik professor on the restoration of the city’s historic monuments.

June 26 — Trogir
Begin the walking tour by winding through Trogir’s narrow streets. Visit the city’s main attraction, the 13th-century Cathedral of St. Lawrence, which is one of the finest examples of Sacral architecture in Croatia. The cathedral’s world-renowned main portal was carved by the local artist Radovan in the 13th century. Continue the walking tour, and see the Town Loggia, Town Hall, and Cipiko Palace.

June 27 — Pula, Rovinj
On this morning’s walking tour of Pula, see its wide array of Roman monuments, most impressive of which is the magnificent Arena, erected in 27 B.C. After Rome’s Colosseum, it is arguably the finest and most intact Roman amphitheater in the world. Michelangelo and Piranesi took inspiration from the nearby Triumphal Arch of the Sergii, distinguished by its coffered archways and winged Victory statues. The noble Temple of Augustus, still intact after 2,000 years, displays a beautiful collection of friezes. Become acquainted with two generations of a Puljani family during the specially arranged meeting.

Continue to the beautiful city of Rovinj, where diminutive houses lean together over the labyrinthine streets of the old town and traces of the Middle Ages can be seen in the ancient fortified town walls.

The walking tour is highlighted by the early 18th-century St. Euphemia Church, home to the saint’s stone sarcophagus, which legend says mysteriously washed ashore in the year 800 after its disappearance from Constantinople.

June 28 — Venice, Italy, U.S.
Disembark the M.S. L’Austral in Venice. Begin the Venice Post-Cruise Option or transfer to the airport for your return flight to the U.S.